Lead Storage Batteries
Recommended for grades 9–12.
Introduction
Two or more wet or dry cells connected in series make a battery. A car battery is generally a lead storage battery containing lead and lead oxide plates in sulfuric acid solution. In this experiment, you will construct a lead storage cell and use a direct-current power supply to charge it. You will use a Voltage Probe to measure the cell’s voltage, and then use the cell to power an electric motor.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Construct a lead storage cell.
- Use a Voltage Probe to measure a cell's voltage.
- Use the cell to power an electric motor.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.